Ambush — Defs

01 n. A disposition or arrangement of troops for attacking an enemy unexpectedly from a concealed station. Hence: Unseen peril; a device to entra…

1.
A disposition or arrangement of troops for attacking an enemy unexpectedly from a concealed station. Hence: Unseen peril; a device to entrap; a snare.
“Heaven, whose high walls fear no assault or siege Or ambush from the deep.” — Milton.
2.
A concealed station, where troops or enemies lie in wait to attack by surprise.
“Bold in close ambush, base in open field.” — Dryden.
3.
The troops posted in a concealed place, for attacking by surprise; liers in wait.[Obs.]
“The ambush arose quickly out of their place.” — Josh. viii. 19.

Phrases & compounds

To lay an ambush — to post a force in ambush.

02 v. t. To station in ambush with a view to surprise an enemy.

imp. & p. p. Ambushed; p. pr. & vb. n. Ambushing

1.
To station in ambush with a view to surprise an enemy.
“By ambushed men behind their temple laid, We have the king of Mexico betrayed.” — Dryden.
2.
To attack by ambush; to waylay.

03 v. i. To lie in wait, for the purpose of attacking by surprise; to lurk.

1.
To lie in wait, for the purpose of attacking by surprise; to lurk.
“Nor saw the snake that ambushed for his prey.” — Trumbull.